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Nasri NM, Gan WY, Mohd Shukri NH. Mother-infant postnatal experience and its association with maternal emotion and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38407161 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2024.2314187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a partial lockdown in Malaysia known as Movement-Controlled-Order (MCO), which has affected primary care management and social life norms. Thus, psychological health is a concern for mothers, particularly during the postpartum period. This study aimed to determine factors associated with maternal emotional experiences and coping during the pandemic. METHODOLOGY Mothers of infants aged < 18 months (n = 1449) in Malaysia completed an online survey during MCO (July 2020 to February 2021). The survey comprised questions on sociodemographics, pandemic livelihood impact, maternal experiences, and emotions. RESULTS More than one-third of mothers expressed feeling worried (54.7%), annoyed (48.1%), and tired (42.2%) to some or a high extent. Mothers who were younger (p = .001), more educated (p = .001), faced difficulty paying rent (p = .002), and whose husbands were unemployed (p < .001) expressed higher negative emotions. In contrast, mothers who received enough support for health (p = .001) and breastfeeding (p = .008), had infants sleep less (p = .042) and had more time to focus on health (p < .001) expressed better emotions. Higher coping was expressed among mothers with a higher household income (p = .004), had more time to focus on their health (p = .010), received additional breastfeeding support (p = 0.039), and practised traditional postpartum care (p < .001). In contrast, difficulty paying for essentials (p = .023) was associated with negative coping. CONCLUSION Maternal emotional experiences were significantly associated with sociodemographic characteristics, livelihood impact, postnatal experiences, and infant behaviours. Postpartum mental health screening is recommended to prevent severe distress, especially in first-time mothers. Coping interventions for mothers at risk may include comprehensive support and maternity care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuruljannah Mohamad Nasri
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Wan Ying Gan
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Husna Mohd Shukri
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
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Robbins N, Harvey K, Moller MD. Emotional Freedom Techniques for Postpartum Depression, Perceived Stress, and Anxiety. Nurs Womens Health 2024; 28:41-49. [PMID: 38103574 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the effect of an Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) group intervention on perceived stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms in women in the postpartum period. DESIGN A one-group pre- and posttest quasi-experimental design. SETTING/LOCAL PROBLEM Postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety affect nearly one in five women in the first 12 months after childbirth. The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a significant worsening of symptoms of PPD, stress, and anxiety in this population. Mental health screening is the standard of care in perinatal settings. This practice has led to an increased rate of PPD and anxiety diagnoses and the need for evidence-based nonpharmacologic interventions to support mothers with PPD and anxiety. PARTICIPANTS Eleven mothers seeking care for lactation concerns who screened positive for PPD and anxiety symptoms. INTERVENTION/MEASUREMENTS A total of eight 1-hour group EFT sessions were offered to participants over a period of 4 weeks. During the group sessions, participants were taught how to perform the steps of EFT and apply it in a supportive group format. Measurement tools included the Subjective Unit of Distress Scale, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. The preintervention and postintervention scores of these tools were compared using a paired-samples t test. RESULTS After implementing EFT as a group intervention, we observed a reduction in mental health burden experienced by women in the postpartum period. There was a statistically significant decrease in depression (p = .003), anxiety (p <.001), and perceived stress (p <.001) scores 1 month after the EFT intervention. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that EFT may be a viable adjunctive intervention for managing depression, anxiety, and stress in the postpartum period. Further research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to confirm these findings.
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Caffieri A, Gómez‐Gómez I, Barquero‐Jimenez C, De‐Juan‐Iglesias P, Margherita G, Motrico E. Global prevalence of perinatal depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic: An umbrella review and meta-analytic synthesis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024; 103:210-224. [PMID: 38113292 PMCID: PMC10823409 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms in pregnant and postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic was assessed by several systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses which provided contrasting and different results. We aimed to summarize the evidence relating to the global prevalence of anxiety and depression among pregnant and postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS An umbrella review of SRs and meta-analyses was performed. Searches were conducted in electronic databases up to April 2023. SRs and meta-analyses reporting the prevalence of perinatal anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic were selected for eligibility. Primary studies extracted from eligible meta-analyses were included in the quantitative synthesis. The research protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020173125). RESULTS A total of 25 SRs (198 primary studies) and 12 meta-analyses (129 primary studies) were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis, respectively. Studies involved data from five continents and 45 countries. The pooled prevalence of antenatal and postpartum depression was 29% (n = 55; 95% CI: 25%-33%) and 26% (n = 54; 95% CI: 23%-30%), respectively. In the case of anxiety, the pooled antenatal and postnatal prevalence was 31% (n = 44; 95% CI: 26%-37%; n = 16; 95% CI: 24%-39%). Differences emerged between continents, with Africa having the highest prevalence of perinatal depression and Oceania and Europe having the highest prevalence of antenatal and postnatal anxiety. The prevalence also varied depending on the assessment tools, especially for antenatal anxiety. A medium-high quality of the studies was observed. One SR assessed strength-of-evidence, reporting very low strength. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, depression and anxiety were common, affecting almost one in three perinatal women globally. A high heterogeneity and a risk of publication bias were found, partially due to the variety of assessment tools and cut-offs. The results may not be generalized to minorities. Studies on the prevalence of clinical diagnoses are needed. Based on our results it is not possible to firmly affirm that the COVID-19 pandemic was the main factor that directly increased perinatal depression and anxiety during the past few years. Future studies should study other factors' impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Caffieri
- Department of Humanistic StudiesUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | | | | | | | - Giorgia Margherita
- Department of Humanistic StudiesUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Emma Motrico
- Department of PsychologyUniversidad Loyola AndalucíaSevilleSpain
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Costa R, Pinto TM, Conde A, Mesquita A, Motrico E, Figueiredo B. Women's perinatal depression: Anhedonia-related symptoms have increased in the COVID-19 pandemic. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 84:102-111. [PMID: 37419029 PMCID: PMC10287182 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of perinatal depression increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may be due to changes in the profile of specific depressive symptoms. AIMS To analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the (1) prevalence and severity of specific depressive symptoms; and on the (2) prevalence of clinically significant symptoms of depression during pregnancy and postpartum. METHODS Pregnant and postpartum women recruited before (n = 2395) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 1396) completed a sociodemographic and obstetric questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). For each item, scores ≥1 and ≥ 2 were used to calculate the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms, respectively. RESULTS The prevalence and severity of symptoms of depression were significantly higher during the COVID-19 pandemic. The prevalence of specific symptoms increased by >30%, namely "being able to laugh and see the funny side of things" (pregnancy 32.6%, postpartum 40.6%), "looking forward with enjoyment to things" (pregnancy 37.2%, postpartum 47.2%); and "feelings of sadness/miserable" or "unhappiness leading to crying" during postpartum (34.2% and 30.2%, respectively). A substantial increase was observed in the severity of specific symptoms related to feelings that "things have been getting on top of me" during pregnancy and the postpartum period (19.4% and 31.6%, respectively); "feeling sad or miserable" during pregnancy (10.8%); and "feeling scared/panicky" during postpartum (21.4%). CONCLUSION Special attention should be paid to anhedonia-related symptoms of perinatal depression to ensure that they are adequately managed in present and future situations of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Costa
- EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Porto, Portugal; Lusófona University, HEI-Lab: Digital Human-Environment Interaction Labs, Portugal.
| | - Tiago Miguel Pinto
- Lusófona University, HEI-Lab: Digital Human-Environment Interaction Labs, Portugal; School of Psychology, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
| | - Ana Conde
- I2P - Portucalense Institute for Psychology, Portucalense University, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana Mesquita
- School of Psychology, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; Prochild CoLAB Against Poverty And Social Exclusion - Association. Campus de Azurém, 4800-058, Guimarães. Portugal.
| | - Emma Motrico
- Psychology Department, Universidad Loyola Andalucia, Avenida de las Universidades s/n, Dos Hermanas, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Bárbara Figueiredo
- School of Psychology, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
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Calpbinici P, Uzunkaya Öztoprak P. The Effect of Fear of COVID-19 on Women's Attitudes toward Cancer Screening and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors: A Cross-Sectional Study. INDIAN JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY 2023; 21:45. [PMID: 37214638 PMCID: PMC10186287 DOI: 10.1007/s40944-023-00719-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of fear of COVID-19 on women's attitudes toward cancer screening and healthy lifestyle behaviors. Method The study is of descriptive and cross-sectional type. The sample of the study consisted of 221 women living in Turkey. Research data were collected using Introductory Information Form, Attitude Scale for Cancer Screening, The Fear of COVID-19 Scale and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale II (HLBS-II). Results It was found out that 92.3% of the women did not have cancer screening during the pandemic period, 33.0% of the women who did not have it because they were afraid of the contamination, 33.0% thought they were healthy, 13.1% did not have screening tests because they thought that screening tests were not easy and accessible during the pandemic period. While no significant relationship was found between women's attitudes toward cancer screenings and fear of COVID-19 (P > 0.05), a positive significant relationship was found between women's attitudes toward cancer screenings and spiritual growth, health responsibility and interpersonal relations scores, which are sub-dimensions of the HLBS-II scale (P > 0.05). In addition, it was found out that women's fear of COVID-19 affected interpersonal relations and stress management (P < 0.05). Conclusion In our study, it was concluded that most of the women did not have cancer screening during the pandemic, and that the fear of COVID-19 affected such healthy lifestyle behaviors as interpersonal relations and stress management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pelin Calpbinici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Semra and Vefa Küçük Faculty of Health Sciences, Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University, Nevşehir, Turkey
| | - Pınar Uzunkaya Öztoprak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Delanerolle G, McCauley M, Hirsch M, Zeng Y, Cong X, Cavalini H, Sajid S, Shetty A, Rathod S, Shi JQ, Hapangama DK, Phiri P. The prevalence of mental ill-health in women during pregnancy and after childbirth during the Covid-19 pandemic: a systematic review and Meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:76. [PMID: 36709255 PMCID: PMC9883834 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05243-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review aims to explore the prevalence of the impact of the COVID-19, MERS, and SARS pandemics on the mental health of pregnant women. METHODS All COVID-19, SARS and MERS studies that evaluated the mental health of pregnant women with/without gynaecological conditions that were reported in English between December 2000 - July 2021 were included. The search criteria were developed based upon the research question using PubMed, Science Direct, Ovid PsycINFO and EMBASE databases. A wide search criterion was used to ensure the inclusion of all pregnant women with existing gynaecological conditions. The Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale was used to assess the risk of bias for all included studies. Random effects model with restricted maximum-likelihood estimation method was applied for the meta-analysis and I-square statistic was used to evaluate heterogeneity across studies. The pooled prevalence rates of symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, and sleep disorders with 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed. RESULTS This systematic review identified 217 studies which included 638,889 pregnant women or women who had just given birth. There were no studies reporting the mental health impact due to MERS and SARS. Results showed that women who were pregnant or had just given birth displayed various symptoms of poor mental health including those relating to depression (24.9%), anxiety (32.8%), stress (29.44%), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (27.93%), and sleep disorders (24.38%) during the COVID-19 pandemic. DISCUSSION It is important to note that studies included in this review used a range of outcome measures which does not allow for direct comparisons between findings. Most studies reported self-reported measure of symptoms without clinical diagnoses so conclusions can be made for symptom prevalence rather than of mental illness. The importance of managing mental health during pregnancy and after-delivery improves the quality of life and wellbeing of mothers hence developing an evidence-based approached as part of pandemic preparedness would improve mental health during challenging times. OTHER The work presented in this manuscript was not funded by any specific grants. A study protocol was developed and published in PROSPERO (CRD42021235356) to explore several key objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Delanerolle
- Nuffield Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, Uuniversity of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Research and Innovation Department, Clinical Trials Facility, Tom Rudd Unit Moorgreen Hospital, Botley Road, West End, Southampton, SO30 3JB, UK
| | - Mary McCauley
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Martin Hirsch
- University College London, London, UK
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Yutian Zeng
- Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xu Cong
- Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Heitor Cavalini
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Research and Innovation Department, Clinical Trials Facility, Tom Rudd Unit Moorgreen Hospital, Botley Road, West End, Southampton, SO30 3JB, UK
| | - Sana Sajid
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Research and Innovation Department, Clinical Trials Facility, Tom Rudd Unit Moorgreen Hospital, Botley Road, West End, Southampton, SO30 3JB, UK
| | - Ashish Shetty
- University College London, London, UK
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Shanaya Rathod
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Research and Innovation Department, Clinical Trials Facility, Tom Rudd Unit Moorgreen Hospital, Botley Road, West End, Southampton, SO30 3JB, UK
| | - Jian Qing Shi
- Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- National Center for Applied Mathematics, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Peter Phiri
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Research and Innovation Department, Clinical Trials Facility, Tom Rudd Unit Moorgreen Hospital, Botley Road, West End, Southampton, SO30 3JB, UK.
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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Kołomańska-Bogucka D, Pławiak N, Mazur-Bialy AI. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Level of Physical Activity, Emotional State, and Health Habits of Women in Late Pregnancy and Early Puerperium. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1852. [PMID: 36767219 PMCID: PMC9915059 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The aim of the study was to determine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the level of physical activity in the last trimester, the risk of developing postnatal depression, and general health habits in late pregnancy and the early postpartum period. METHODS The study population was women 1-8 days postpartum. Participants were divided into three groups depending on when they were recruited: (1) prepandemic (Ppan: n = 252, December 2019-March 2020), (2) COVID1 group (Cov1: n = 262, May 2020-September 2020), and (3) COVID2 group (Cov2: n = 226, June 2021-September 2021). The Ppan group included women from before the pandemic. The Cov1 group included patients after some restrictions were lifted. The Cov2 group included women after vaccinations became available. Research tools included a demographical questionnaire (age, education, childbirth details), the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and the Health Behavior Inventory (IZZ). RESULTS Regression analysis showed that regardless of other variables, women who gave birth during the pandemic spent less energy on total physical activity compared to the prepandemic group (Cov1: β = -18.930, 95%CI: -36.499 to -1.361; Cov2: β = -26.527, 95%CI: -44.322 to -8.733). We also found that as the risk of depression increased, engagement in general health habits decreased during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The Covid-19 pandemic decreased the level of some subdomains of physical activity in pregnant women, with a general negative correlation between emotional state and healthy habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Kołomańska-Bogucka
- Department of Biomechanics and Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Science, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Skawińska 8, 31-066 Krakow, Poland
| | - Natalia Pławiak
- University Hospital in Krakow, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka I. Mazur-Bialy
- Department of Biomechanics and Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Science, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Skawińska 8, 31-066 Krakow, Poland
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Zhang X, Wang C, Zuo X, Aertgeerts B, Buntinx F, Li T, Vermandere M. Study characteristical and regional influences on postpartum depression before vs. during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1102618. [PMID: 36875385 PMCID: PMC9975262 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1102618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While the public is under serious pressure from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the final impact and possible contributing factors to postpartum depression symptoms (PPDS) remain unknown. Therefore, a meta-analysis to investigate the association between PPDS and the COVID-19 pandemic was carried out by comparing the data between pre-pandemic and post-pandemic timeframes and exploring the influencing factors. Methods This systematic review was prospectively registered and recorded in a study protocol (Prospero CRD42022336820, http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO). A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINALH, Cochrane and Scopus was cmpleted on June 6, 2022. Studies that compared the prevalence of PPD before and during the COVID-19 pandemic period were included. Results Of 1766 citations identified, 22 studies were included with 15,098 participates before the COVID-19 pandemic and 11,836 participants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the analysis showed that the epidemic crisis was associated with an increased prevalence of PPDS (OR: 0.81 [0.68, 0.95], P = 0.009, I 2 = 59%). Subgroup analysis was conducted according to the study characteristics and regions. Within the study characteristics classification, results showed an obvious increase in the prevalence of PPDS during the COVID-19 pandemic if PPDS cutoff was defined as Edinburgh postpartum depression score (EPDS) ≥13 points (OR: 0.72 [0.52, 0.98], P = 0.03, I 2 = 67%) and an increased prevalence in follow-ups that happened after 2 weeks (≥ 2 weeks postpartum) (OR: 0.81 [0.68, 0.97], P = 0.02, I 2 = 43%). Selected studies that were high-quality (OR: 0.79 [0.64, 0.97], P = 0.02, I 2 = 56%) demonstrated an increased prevalence of PPDS during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Sorting by regional factors, studies conducted in Asia (OR: 0.81 [0.70, 0.93], P = 0.003, I 2 = 0%) showed an increase of PPDS prevalence rates during the COVID-19 period, while studies conducted in Europe (OR: 0.82 [0.59, 1.13], P = 0.23, I 2 = 71%) and North America (OR: 0.66 [0.42, 1.02], P = 0.06, I 2 = 65%) showed no significant difference. All studies conducted in the developed (OR: 0.79 [0.64, 0.98], P = 0.03, I 2 = 65%) and developing countries (OR: 0.81 [0.69, 0.94], P = 0.007, I 2 = 0%) showed an increase of PPDS during the COVID-19 period. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with an increased prevalence of PPDS, especially after long-term follow-up and among the group with a high possibility of depression. The negative influence from the pandemic, causing more PPDS was significant in studies from Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Zhang
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Center for General Practice, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Family Medicine, Qingdao United Family Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Chun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoli Zuo
- Department of Family Medicine, Qingdao United Family Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Bert Aertgeerts
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Center for General Practice, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank Buntinx
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Center for General Practice, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tang Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, China
| | - Mieke Vermandere
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Center for General Practice, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Alao MA, Ibrahim OR, Iloh KK, Ayuk AC, Diala UM, Briggs DC, Imam ZO, Yekini SA, Sotimehin SA, Musa AZ, Famutimi EO, Idris AA, Odimegwu CL, Imam ZK, Medupin PF, Adeyemi AT, Nnamani KO, Tongo OO. Factors associated with common mental disorders among breastfeeding mothers in tertiary hospital nurseries in Nigeria. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281704. [PMID: 36893141 PMCID: PMC9997879 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have shown that the impact of maternal mental health disorders on newborns' well-being in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) are underreported, multi-dimensional and varies over time and differs from what is reported in high-income countries. We present the prevalence and risk factors associated with common mental disorders (CMDs) among breastfeeding mothers whose infants were admitted to Nigerian tertiary care facilities. METHODS This was a national cross-sectional study involving mothers of hospitalised babies from eleven Nigerian tertiary hospitals. We used the WHO self-reporting Questionnaire 20 and an adapted WHO/UNICEF ten-step breastfeeding support package to assess mothers' mental health and breastfeeding support. RESULTS Only 895 of the 1,120 mothers recruited from eleven tertiary healthcare nurseries in six geopolitical zones of Nigeria had complete datasets for analysis. The participants' mean age was 29.9 ± 6.2 years. One in four had CMDs; 24.0% (95% CI: 21.235, 26.937%). The ages of mothers, parity, gestational age at delivery, and length of hospital stay were comparable between mothers with and those without CMDs. Antenatal care at primary healthcare facilities (adjusted odds ratio [aOR:13], primary education [aOR:3.255] living in the south-southern region of the country [aOR 2.207], poor breastfeeding support [aOR:1.467], polygamous family settings [aOR:2.182], and a previous history of mental health disorders [aOR:4.684] were significantly associated with CMDs. In contrast, those from the middle and lower socioeconomic classes were less likely to develop CMDs, with [aOR:0.532] and [aOR:0.493], respectively. CONCLUSION In Nigeria, the prevalence of CMDs is relatively high among breastfeeding mothers with infants admitted to a tertiary care facility. Prior history of mental illness, polygamous households, mothers living in the southern region and low or no educational attainment have a greater risk of developing CMDs. This study provides evidence for assessing and tailoring interventions to CMDs among breastfeeding mothers in neonatal nurseries in LMIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Abel Alao
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine University of Ibadan & University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
- * E-mail:
| | - Olayinka Rasheed Ibrahim
- Department of Paediatrics, Federal Medical Centre, Kastina, Kastina State, Nigeria
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Kenechukwu Kosisochukwu Iloh
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Nigeria &University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Adaeze C. Ayuk
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Nigeria &University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Udochukwu Michael Diala
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
| | - Datonye Christopher Briggs
- Rivers State University, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences / Department of Paediatrics, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Sikirat Adetoun Sotimehin
- Paediatrics Department, Asokoro District Hospital / Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Aishatu Zaidu Musa
- Department of Paediatrics Abubakar Tafewa Balewa University, Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria
| | | | - Adedeji Abiodun Idris
- Department of Paediatrics Abubakar Tafewa Balewa University, Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria
| | - Chioma Laura Odimegwu
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Nigeria &University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Ayomide Toluwanimi Adeyemi
- Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine/University College Hospital Ibadan Centre for African Newborn Health and Nutrition, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Kenechi Ogbodo Nnamani
- Department of Paediatrics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria
| | - Olukemi Oluwatoyin Tongo
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine University of Ibadan & University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Chrzan-Dętkoś M, Walczak-Kozłowska T. Postpartum depression crisis since the second lockdown and 'screening paradox': many women identified, very few treated. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2387. [PMID: 36539811 PMCID: PMC9763806 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14705-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Exposure to stressful situations, such as emergencies, infectious diseases, and natural disasters, may lead to a heightened risk of perinatal mental health problems. Declared on March 11th, 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic triggered an additional burden on women in the perinatal period. Safety recommendations, such as social distancing and isolation, were opposite to the usual advice given to new mothers. Besides fear, changes in financial stability and daily life reorganization contributed to increased depressive symptoms. As the periods of epidemic waves and lockdowns were associated with a more significant burden for young families, we aimed to assess the intensification of depressive and anxiety symptoms during the pandemic concerning the time intervals of the three lockdowns introduced in Poland. METHODS 1588 postpartum women took part in the online self-assessment with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and General Anxiety Disorder 2 (GAD-2) questionnaire between January 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021. This self-screening is a part of a prevention program The Next Stop: Mum, implemented in the North of Poland. RESULTS The highest severity of PPD symptoms and anxiety were observed during the second lockdown in Poland: the mean score in the EPDS and anxiety assessment was significantly higher than the mean scores from previous pandemic periods. Since the second lockdown, the average EPDS and GAD-2 scores remained similarly high. Moreover, with the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the percentage of women with elevated symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety began to increase. However, the Polish National Health Fund data indicate that only 0,7% of women giving birth in the northern macro-region of Poland received diagnosis and help from public funds. In The Next Stop: Mum project, 250 women benefited from psychological consultations. CONCLUSION Increased severity of depression and anxiety symptoms during the pandemic indicates the need for additional psychological support for postpartum women. However, very few women are diagnosed in health facilities in the first year postpartum and thus are rarely referred for further treatment. The study shows that the availability of services and the focus on social and individual barriers may be critical factors in implementing perinatal mental health programs and practices. This may be especially needed in a country where the screening obligation is new. In case of a further pandemic, policymakers and health care professionals should be aware that the duration of the restrictions and the repetition of lockdowns are associated with the aggravation of symptoms. The online screening without the possibility to discuss the results is only partially effective in increasing referrals for possibly affected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Chrzan-Dętkoś
- grid.8585.00000 0001 2370 4076Division of Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology, Institute of Psychology, Department of the Social Sciences, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Tamara Walczak-Kozłowska
- grid.8585.00000 0001 2370 4076Division of Neuropsychology, Institute of Psychology, Department of the Social Sciences, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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Gao S, Su S, Zhang E, Liu R, Zhang Y, Wang C, Liu J, Xie S, Yin C, Yue W. Psychological health status in postpartum women during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2022; 319:99-111. [PMID: 36087790 PMCID: PMC9450470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled the prevalence of psychological symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined the effects of the pandemic on psychological health in postpartum women. METHODS A systematic literature search and identification were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases until June 16th, 2021. The fixed or random effect models to estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum psychological symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and the odds ratio (OR) of COVID-19 for psychological symptoms. RESULTS A total of 29 articles including 20,225 postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic and 8312 before the COVID-19 pandemic were identified. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of postpartum depressive, anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were 26.7 % (95 % CI: 22.0-31.9 %), 33.8 % (95 % CI: 21.1-49.4 %), 55.0 % (95%CI: 27.9-79.5 %), and 33.7 % (95%CI: 19.6-51.5 %), respectively. The ORs of COVID-19 pandemic for postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms were 1.54 (95 % CI: 1.00-2.36) and 2.56 (95%CI: 1.62-4.04). Subgroup analyses revealed that women with >6 weeks after delivery, younger than 35 years old, low income, less education and without breastfeeding experienced a higher risk of depressive or anxiety symptoms after delivery. LIMITATIONS Only a few of prospective studies were included, and significant but inevitable heterogeneities were found in some analyses. CONCLUSION A significantly higher proportion of postpartum women were suffered from psychological symptoms during COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in those with >6 weeks after delivery, younger than 35 years old, low income, less education and formula feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chenghong Yin
- Department of Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China.
| | - Wentao Yue
- Department of Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China.
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Prandini NR, Souza SRRK, Resende ACAP, Freitas EAMD, Serrato JT, Skupien SV. Mental Health of Postpartum Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Review. AQUICHAN 2022. [DOI: 10.5294/aqui.2022.22.2.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify and analyze the scientific evidence on the mental health of postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This integrative review was carried out using the VHL, CINAHL, PubCovid, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, whose research question was “What is the scientific evidence on the mental health of postpartum women during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic?” Results: Ten articles in English were included, identifying a higher frequency of cross-sectional research (n = 4), publications in November 2020 (n = 3), conducted in Italy (n = 3), with level VI evidence (n = 6). The study found that postpartum women feel depressed, lonely, and afraid; attention is drawn to the worsening risk of postpartum depression with significant prevalence values. It points out factors that negatively influence the mental health of this population in the current pandemic and discloses care measures. Conclusions: In addition to previous characteristics, socioeconomic conditions (e.g., living in highly infected areas, unemployment) and elements inherent to this pandemic (e.g., distance and fear of contagion) negatively influence the mental health of postpartum women. Means of dealing with the conditions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic are available, such as relaxation techniques, physical exercise, and professional support. The relevance and need for research on this theme, mostly nationally, are highlighted.
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Overbeck G, Rasmussen IS, Siersma V, Kragstrup J, Ertmann RK, Wilson P. Mental well-being during stages of COVID-19 lockdown among pregnant women and new mothers. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:92. [PMID: 35105334 PMCID: PMC8804668 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04374-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnancy and early motherhood are sensitive times where epidemic disease outbreaks can affect mental health negatively. Countries and health care systems handled the pandemic and lockdowns differently and knowledge about how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental well-being of pregnant women and new mothers is limited and points in different directions. Aim To investigate symptoms of anxiety and depression in a population of pregnant women and new mothers in various stages of infection pressure and lockdown during the first 15 months of the COVID-19 pandemic in Denmark. Methods The study population was nested an inception cohort of women recruited in their first trimester of pregnancy. Data about mental health of the woman were obtained in relation to pregnancy and child development (first trimester, 8 weeks postpartum and 5 months postpartum), and data were analysed cross-sectionally according to calendar time (periods defined by infection rate and lock-down during the COVID-19 pandemic). Results No differences in reported levels of depressive symptoms between the six examined time periods of the pandemic were observed. Specifically, symptoms remained unchanged after the first lock-down. No major changes in anxiety symptoms were observed in relation to increased infection pressure or lockdowns, but a small increase was observed during the second lockdown in women 8 weeks postpartum. Conclusion No clear change in mood among pregnant women was seen between during the stages of COVID-19 pandemic in Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gritt Overbeck
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Ida Scheel Rasmussen
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Volkert Siersma
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Kragstrup
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ruth Kirk Ertmann
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Philip Wilson
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Rural Health, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland
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Jensen NH, Nielsen KK, Dahl-Petersen IK, Maindal HT. The experience of women with recent gestational diabetes during the COVID-19 lockdown: a qualitative study from Denmark. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:84. [PMID: 35093021 PMCID: PMC8800544 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04424-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Following COVID-19 and the lockdowns, maternity care and support for women after delivery have been temporary restructured. Studies show that COVID-19 adversely impacts pregnant and peripartum women in the general population, but experiences among women in the first year after delivery/in the wider postpartum period remain unexplored. Moreover, experiences among women with recent gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are lacking; though it is a group with a potential high need for support after delivery. The aim of our study was to investigate (i) how women with recent GDM experienced COVID-19 and the first lockdown in Denmark, and (ii) the women’s risk perception and health literacy in terms of interaction with the healthcare system in relation to COVID-19. Methods We performed a qualitative study among 11 women with recent GDM (infants aged 2-11 months old). Semi-structured interviews were conducted in April-May 2020 by telephone or Skype for Business, when Denmark was under lockdown. We analysed data using a thematic qualitative content analysis. Results Three themes emerged: i) Everyday life and family well-being, ii) Worries about COVID-19 and iii) Health literacy: Health information and access to healthcare. The women were generally not worried about their own or their infant’s risk of COVID-19. The lockdown had a negative impact on everyday life e.g. routines, loneliness, breastfeeding uncertainties and worries for the infant’s social well-being; but better family dynamics were also described. It was challenging to maintain healthy behaviours and thus the women described worries for the risk of type 2 diabetes and GDM in subsequent pregnancies. The women missed peer support and face-to-face visits from health visitors and found it difficult to navigate the restructured care with online/telephone set-ups. Conclusions COVID-19 and the lockdown affected everyday life among women with recent GDM both positively and negatively. Our findings suggest a need for care that are responsive to psychological and social aspects of health throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and support to limit worries about adaptation to motherhood and the infant’s social well-being. Communication focusing on the importance and relevance of contacting healthcare providers should also be strengthened.
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Semaan A, Dey T, Kikula A, Asefa A, Delvaux T, Langlois EV, van den Akker T, Benova L. "Separated during the first hours"-Postnatal care for women and newborns during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study from a global online survey of maternal and newborn healthcare providers. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000214. [PMID: 36962168 PMCID: PMC10022345 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Routine postnatal care (PNC) allows monitoring, early detection and management of complications, and counselling to ensure immediate and long-term wellbeing of mothers and newborns; yet effective coverage is sub-optimal globally. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted availability and quality of maternal and newborn care despite established guidelines promoting continuity of essential services. We conducted a cross-sectional global online survey of 424 maternal and newborn healthcare providers from 61 countries, to explore PNC provision, availability, content and quality following the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire (11 languages), included four multiple-choice and four open-text questions on changes to PNC during the pandemic. Quantitative and qualitative responses received between July and December 2020 were analysed separately and integrated during reporting. Tightened rules for visiting postpartum women were reported in health facilities, ranging from shorter visiting hours to banning supportive companions and visitors. A quarter (26%) of respondents reported that mothers suspected/confirmed with COVID-19 were routinely separated from their newborns. Early initiation of breastfeeding was delayed due to waiting for maternal SARS-CoV-2 test results. Reduced provision of breastfeeding support was reported by 40% of respondents in high-income countries and 7% in low-income countries. Almost 60% reported that women were discharged earlier than usual and 27% perceived a reduction in attendance to outpatient PNC. Telemedicine and home visits were mostly reported in high-income countries to ensure safe care provision. Beyond the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, severe disruptions to content and quality of PNC continued to exist, whereas disruptions in availability and use were less commonly reported. Depriving women of support, reducing availability of PNC services, and mother-newborn separation could lead to negative long-term outcomes for women, newborns and families, and deny their rights to respectful care. Protecting these essential services is imperative to promoting quality woman-centred PNC during and beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Semaan
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Teesta Dey
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amani Kikula
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Upanga-West, Dar es salaam, Tanzania
| | - Anteneh Asefa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thérèse Delvaux
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Etienne V Langlois
- Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Faculty of Science, Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lenka Benova
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Women's Healthcare Services since the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010180. [PMID: 35010440 PMCID: PMC8750331 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had a direct impact on the extent of guaranteed healthcare services. Many gynecologists', obstetricians', and midwives' offices were closed, laboratories suspended their activities, the collection of necessary tests was delayed, and women had to wait much longer for test results than they had to previously. General women's healthcare prophylactic programs were suspended or delayed. In 2020, screening financed by public funds covered less than one-seventh of the female population in Poland. As medical teams, professionals, clinicians, and scientists, we have been facing a challenge to help, protect, and care for one of the most vulnerable population groups, pregnant women. A significant part of that challenge has been in preventing the spread of severe COVID-19, along with other preventable diseases, among women who are pregnant, who are in labor, or who have recently given birth.
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Dymecka J, Gerymski R, Iszczuk A, Bidzan M. Fear of Coronavirus, Stress and Fear of Childbirth in Polish Pregnant Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:13111. [PMID: 34948718 PMCID: PMC8700819 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is the largest pandemic of an aggressive coronavirus in the human population in the 21st century. The pandemic may have a negative emotional impact on pregnant women, causing fear and stress. Negative feelings during pregnancy later affect fear of childbirth. Our study aimed to determine the relationship between fear of COVID-19, stress and fear of childbirth. We assume that fear of COVID-19 will be a mediator of the relationship between perceived stress and fear of childbirth. A total of 262 Polish pregnant women participated in this study. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FOC-6) and Labour Anxiety Questionnaire (KLP II) were used in the study. There was a statistically significant, moderate, and positive relationship between perceived stress, fear of COVID-19, and fear of childbirth. Fear of COVID-19 was a statistically significant mediator in the relationship between perceived stress and fear of childbirth. The COVID-19 epidemic may have a negative emotional impact on pregnant women, causing fear, stress and increased fear of childbirth. Childbirth during the COVID-19 pandemic is perceived by women as a threat to their well-being and health. Therefore, it is especially important to support a woman in the perinatal period and to enable her to give birth to a child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Dymecka
- Department of Health Psychology and Quality of Life, Institute of Psychology, Opole University, 45-040 Opole, Poland;
| | - Rafał Gerymski
- Department of Health Psychology and Quality of Life, Institute of Psychology, Opole University, 45-040 Opole, Poland;
| | - Adrianna Iszczuk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Opole University, 45-040 Opole, Poland;
| | - Mariola Bidzan
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Gdansk, 80-309 Gdansk, Poland;
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Miranda AR, Scotta AV, Cortez MV, Soria EA. Triggering of postpartum depression and insomnia with cognitive impairment in Argentinian women during the pandemic COVID-19 social isolation in relation to reproductive and health factors. Midwifery 2021; 102:103072. [PMID: 34218023 PMCID: PMC8437687 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective The 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19) required strict confinement measures that differentially impacted the individual's daily life. Thus, this work aimed to study postpartum women's mental health in Argentina during mandatory social isolation. Design A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to July 2020, which included five validated questionnaires to assess postpartum depression (Postpartum Depression Screening Scale‐Short Form), insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index), memory complaints (Memory Complaint Scale), metacognition (Brief Metamemory and Metaconcentration Scale), and breastfeeding self-efficacy (Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form). Sociodemographic variables, social isolation characteristics, and breastfeeding practices were also collected. This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Statistical analysis included zero-order correlations, multiple logistic regressions, and a set of structural equation models (SEM) to test direct and indirect effects. Goodness-of-fit indices were calculated for SEM. Setting Postpartum women were recruited from public hospitals, private health clinics, and online community recruitment in the Cordoba province (Argentina). Participants 305 postpartum women from Argentina. Measurements and findings 37% of women reported postpartum depression, 46% insomnia, 42% memory impairment, 60% low metaconcentration, 50% low metamemory, and 23% low breastfeeding efficacy. Also, significant associations were found demonstrating that social isolation promoted postpartum depression and insomnia were reciprocally related, which compromised female cognition and efficacy. This situation was aggravated in women during late postpartum, with previous children, and by low social support (e.g., family, health professionals), with non-exclusive breastfeeding being increased. Key conclusions This is the first study addressing postpartum women's mental status during social isolation in Argentina, which was a promoting factor for postpartum depression and insomnia that were reciprocally related. This situation was also aggravated by reproductive factors, such as late postpartum, multiparity, breastfeeding frequency, and non-exclusive breastfeeding. Additionally, breastfeeding self-efficacy depended on mental health status, and euthymia therefore favoured the practice of exclusive breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Ramiro Miranda
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Escuela de Fonoaudiología. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET, INICSA. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ana Veronica Scotta
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Escuela de Fonoaudiología. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET, INICSA. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mariela Valentina Cortez
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Escuela de Fonoaudiología. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET, INICSA. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Elio Andrés Soria
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET, INICSA. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Cátedra de Biología Celular, Histología y Embriología, Instituto de Biología Celular. Bv. de la Reforma, Ciudad Universitaria, 5014 Córdoba, Argentina.
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